Tight security as Jonathan arrives Otuoke

There was tight security in Otuoke, Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State on Friday as President Goodluck Jonathan arrived his hometown.

The President will cast his vote at a polling unit near his country home.

Prior to his arrival, two Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) were seen on the Otuoke Road, one in front of the President’s house.

The other was parked in front of Magels Resort, a hotel close to UBA, the only bank in Otuoke.

Earlier, a helicopter was seen hovering around the town, apparently on security surveillance.

Soldiers and policemen were also seen on the main road, as well as plain-clothe officers who guarded the President’s house.

There were signposts directing motorists to “keep moving,” while police officers shouted at drivers of vehicles which stopped within the vicinity of the President’s home, asking them to leave.

The President arrived by 3 pm in company with Governor Seriake Dickson and other aides.

Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has warned its operatives who take bribes from politicians while providing security at polling units.

The State Commandant, Mr. Desmond Agu, said any personnel found to have been compromised during the general elections would be prosecuted.

Addressing the men, he said: “Do not compromise. Do not allow politicians to use you to manipulate the process.

“Also, do not allow any other security agencies or your colleagues to influence you to collect bribes. Let me assure you that your allowances have been paid.

“We urge you to go out there and conduct yourselves as a security agency with integrity and professionalism.

“Let me reiterate here that the Commandant General of the corps, Mr. Ade Abolurin, has warned that no civil defender should compromise. Your duties are to protect lives, staff of Independent Electoral Commission, ad hoc staff and citizens. Any compromise will be severely punished.”